Moscow State University
Moscow, Russia • Founded 1755 • World Rank #488
Overview
Founded in 1755, the Moscow State University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the large metropolis of Moscow (population range of over 5,000,000 inhabitants).
Officially recognized by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, Moscow State University (MSU) is a large-sized coeducational Russian higher education institution. Moscow State University (MSU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 269-year-old Russian higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations. MSU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, sports facilities, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
The geographic and contact details below cover where Moscow State University is and how to reach its administrative offices. Campus emergency contact is typically distinct from general inquiries.
Academic Details
Moscow State University's academic profile in numbers — useful for sizing the institution against your shortlist. Each figure links to a different facet of how the institution operates day to day.
Academic Structures
Moscow State University's teaching architecture in the units below. New faculties (formed in the last decade) signal where the institution is investing for the future.
Unit 30 items
- Faculty of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics
- Faculty of Biology
- Faculty of Chemistry
- Faculty of Computational Mathematics and Cybernetics
- Faculty of Economics
- Faculty of Education
- Faculty of Fine and Performing Arts
- Faculty of Foreign Languages and Area Studies
- Faculty of Further Education
- Faculty of Geography
- Faculty of Geology
- Faculty of Global Studies
- Faculty of History
- Faculty of Journalism
- Faculty of Law
- Faculty of Materials Science
- Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics
- Faculty of Medicine
- Faculty of Military Training
- Faculty of Philology
- Faculty of Philosophy
- Faculty of Physics
- Faculty of Psychology
- Faculty of Public Administration
- Faculty of Sociology
- Faculty of Soil Science
- Faculty of World Politics
- Higher School of Business Administration
- Moscow School of Economics
- The Institute of Asian and African countries
How to apply to Moscow State University
How to apply to Moscow State University — a five-step structure with notes on documents, channels, and timing for each phase.
- 1 Browse the programme catalogue
Look through the programmes section to see what Moscow State University offers. Identify your target qualification level and subject area before continuing with the application process.
- 2 Check eligibility for your chosen programme
Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for Moscow State University's admissions process.
- 3 Get your documents ready
Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.
- 4 Apply through the official channel
Submit your completed application through Moscow State University's official website at msu.ru. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.
- 5 Reach out and track your application
Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Reach the institution by phone at +7 (95) 939 1000. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.
Frequently Asked Questions about Moscow State University
Frequently asked questions about Moscow State University, covering the institutional basics most prospective applicants want to confirm first.
When was Moscow State University founded?
Moscow State University was established in 1755 (approximately 271 years ago).
Where is Moscow State University located?
Moscow State University is located in Moscow, Russia.
What is Moscow State University's control type?
It is a public higher-education institution.
What is the student enrolment at Moscow State University?
Student enrolment at Moscow State University is around 25,000-29,999.
Where does Moscow State University stand in university rankings?
It ranks #488 globally and #1 in Russia.
How many faculties does Moscow State University have?
Moscow State University has 30 academic units.
Who recognises Moscow State University?
The institution holds recognition from Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation.
How do I find Moscow State University online?
You can find Moscow State University online at msu.ru.
Members of European University Association (EUA)
Network-level rankings exist for some European University Association (EUA) groupings (e.g., U21, Universitas 21). These differ from country rankings and reflect coordinated members' shared performance.
Faculties at Nearby Universities
Beyond Moscow State University, the surrounding area hosts several universities with overlapping research strengths and faculty mixes. They are worth comparing if location flexibility matters to your decision and you want to keep options open within the same region.
Universities Often Compared with Moscow State University
The institutions below sit at a comparable academic standing to Moscow State University, often shortlisted together. Same-tier comparison helps when you have a target level but want to weigh non-ranking factors like culture or specialism.
